By: Alieu Ceesay
A young Gambian student in the 12th grade at Masroor Senior Secondary School, Babucarr Marenah, is committed to the prosperity of the Gambia. He has articulated an inspiring vision to transform the nation through strategic agricultural development, economic reforms, and educational advancements.
The 18-year-old student, an emerging TikTok content creator, shared insights that underscored the River Gambia’s potential and innovative irrigation techniques, the empowerment of local farmers and agricultural graduates, and the critical economic and educational reforms needed.
“The government could use the River Gambia as a central source for irrigating targeted places like the Jahali-Pachar rice fields,” Mareneh began, emphasizing the natural resources available to boost agricultural productivity. “Using drilled borehole irrigation methods could further strengthen the irrigation plan towards agricultural activities,” he continued, envisioning a scenario where lands remain moist for year-round farming. He believes this will enhance agricultural yields and attract potential farmers to the sector by creating a lucrative image.
Mareneh stressed the importance of engaging young agriculture graduates in this revitalized sector. “When the government creates a lucrative image for the sector, agriculture students will be more willing to partake in agricultural production,” he explained. He proposed that the government provide employment opportunities for these young agriculturalists in transformed agricultural zones. “Agriculture is the backbone of a country, but only if the youths are involved. When youths are involved, it becomes the ‘center bone,'” he asserted, highlighting the crucial role of young professionals in sustaining the agricultural sector.
Empowering local farmers is another crucial element of Mareneh’s vision. “Local farmers could be empowered by reducing the cost of production for them,” he suggested. The government can promote greater productivity among grassroots farmers by subsidizing fertilizers and equipment costs. “If what is done in Tubakuta village is a steady and continual project, almost all our localities would transform into green planets before we know it,” Mareneh observed, referencing successful local initiatives that could serve as models for broader implementation.
In addition to agricultural reforms, Mareneh addressed the need for affordable housing and robust infrastructure. “The government should construct houses and provide them at affordable prices,” he proposed, aiming to alleviate the burden of rent for average Gambians.
Regarding economic policies, Mareneh advocated for active government intervention in price control and monetary regulation. “The government should work hand in glove with the central bank in buying and selling treasuries to either increase or reduce the flow of money depending on the country’s state,” he explained. He also suggested using maximum and minimum price control mechanisms to protect consumer and producer rights, thereby improving the standard of living. “This will aid in reducing the costs of living for citizens,” Mareneh stated, underscoring the broader impact of economic stability on societal well-being.
Lastly, Mareneh called for transforming the educational system to foster practical skills and entrepreneurial mindsets. “Skills should be learned at schools because this is where the Western world is ahead of us,” he noted, criticizing the current focus on rote learning. He advocated for a curriculum combining theoretical knowledge and practical experience to better prepare students for real-world challenges. “If an entrepreneurial-minded person only sits in class to learn the theories without practical for a million years, all in the name of getting degrees, entrepreneurship will be dead,” Mareneh warned.
In conclusion, Mareneh emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to implement these recommendations. “The government should work side by side with the relevant stakeholders to ensure a proper and pragmatic implementation of my recommendations,” he advised, urging citizens to cooperate with authorities to bring these initiatives to fruition.
Through Mareneh’s vision, a path to a prosperous Gambia emerges. Where agriculture thrives, the economy stabilizes, and education empowers the next generation of leaders.
